Watch Died Young, Stayed Pretty

Died Young, Stayed Pretty is a documentary film that explores the world of indie rock posters and the artists who create them. The film dives deep into the underground subculture of rock and roll art, uncovering a world of DIY aesthetics and counterculture rebellion. The film is directed by Eileen Yaghoobian and features interviews with a variety of poster artists, including the Ames Brothers, Art Chantry, and Brian Chippendale. The movie takes the viewer behind the scenes, revealing the creative process behind some of the most iconic gig posters in music history.

The film is divided into chapters, each one profiling a different artist or group of artists. The chapters explore the artists' influences, their methods, and their attitudes towards the commercialization of their craft. Through interviews and archive footage, the film paints a vivid picture of the indie rock poster scene in Portland, Oregon and other cities throughout the United States.

One of the key themes of the film is the relationship between the music and the art. The poster artists are often inspired by the music they hear, and their work reflects the energy and excitement of the live shows they attend. The film goes behind the scenes at some of these shows, giving the viewer a taste of the raw power and energy of the underground music scene.

Another theme of the film is the role of rebellion and counterculture in the indie rock poster scene. The artists profiled in the movie are often motivated by a desire to push boundaries and challenge societal norms. They reject the commercialization and corporatization of mainstream music, and instead create raw, unfiltered art that reflects their own unique perspectives.

The movie also explores the impact of technology on the indie rock poster scene. As digital media becomes more prevalent, some artists are forced to adapt their methods or risk being left behind. The film discusses the pros and cons of digital printing, and the tension that exists between the traditional handcrafted approach to poster design and the convenience and efficiency of digital methods.

Throughout the film, the viewer is introduced to a range of colorful characters who inhabit the indie rock poster scene. From the obsessive collectors who hunt down rare posters to the passionate artists who create them, the movie is full of fascinating personalities and compelling stories.

Overall, Died Young, Stayed Pretty is a thought-provoking and engaging documentary that offers an intimate look at the world of indie rock posters. With its vibrant visuals and rich cultural commentary, the film is a must-see for anyone interested in music, art, and counterculture.

Died Young, Stayed Pretty is a 2009 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.